Vancouver youth plan for WYD 2013

Archdiocese's young adult ministry office rolls out info on Rio


Brazilians show their pride at World Youth Day 2011. BCC file photo.

It's a more than a year away, but planning for World Youth Day 2013 is under way in the Archdiocese of Vancouver. The Office of the Youth and Young Adult Ministry (OYYAM) met with parish representatives June 5, at the John Paul II Pastoral Centre at 150 Robson Street, regarding different plans and options for groups travelling to the Brazilian capital.

Gerard Garcia, a consultant for parish youth ministry, gave the presentation which detailed what WYD pilgrims can expect on the trip.


Gerard Garcia, consultant for parish youth ministry, holds up a WYD jersey used
by Canadians in Australia in 2008. OYYAM hopes to create an archdiocesan
T-shirt for WYD 2013. Nathan Rumohr / The B.C. Catholic

"We want people to be prepared and ready," Garcia said. He recommended that pilgrims register for WYD early to avoid any hiccups once in the country. Registration starts in July through the Rio 2013 website.

He also recommended that pilgrims form traveling groups to maximize the WYD experience. He said OYYAM will help new pilgrims find a group.

Pilgrims will also have to factor in security to the 2013 event, said Garcia. He noted the last few WYD events have been held in developed countries whereas Brazil, a developing country, presents security concerns. Garcia recommended that pilgrims do their homework by reading the Canadian Government Foreign Affairs and International Trade's report on Brazil. The report is updated to include travel advisories.

Garcia also announced OYYAM is looking into creating an archdiocesan T-shirt for the event, much like the Canadian jersey from Australia 2008.

For more on the archdiocese's WYD 2013 plans click here.



WYD 2011 pilgrims gather for the vigil Mass in Madrid. BCC file photo.